News Desk
LONDON — In a series of high-level engagements, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu met with British officials in London, reinforcing the deep diplomatic bonds between the two nations as they mark 60 years of relations. The visit, which began on July 15, highlighted shared commitments to environmental stewardship, democratic governance, and expanded cooperation in key sectors like fisheries, renewable energy, and education.
The visit commenced with a courtesy call from Sir Lindsay Hoyle MP, Speaker of the House of Commons, at the Speaker’s House in the Palace of Westminster. The meeting underscored the enduring partnership between the Maldives and the United Kingdom, with discussions centered on advancing mutual priorities. Both leaders emphasized environmental sustainability, sustainable tourism, fisheries, and the promotion of democratic values.
Following the talks, President Muizzu signed the Guestbook to commemorate the occasion and was given a guided tour of the historic Palace of Westminster, a symbol of shared democratic heritage.
Later that day, President Muizzu engaged with the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on the Maldives at the House of Lords. The session, opened by MP Yasmin Qureshi, Co-Chair of the APPG, highlighted the international community’s responsibility to support Small Island Developing States (SIDS) through financial aid, technical expertise, and sustained global commitment.
In his address, the president reaffirmed the Maldives’ dedication to strengthening its six-decade-long relationship with the United Kingdom, rooted in shared values and strong people-to-people ties. He expressed gratitude for the UK’s support in justice sector reform, democratic consolidation, climate adaptation, defense cooperation, and capacity building.
The discussions that followed were forward-looking, with participants exploring new avenues for collaboration in areas of mutual interest, including educational and cultural exchanges that have long defined Maldives-UK relations.
The visit culminated in a courtesy call from David Lammy, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, who met with President Muizzu to discuss deepening bilateral ties. The talks focused on cooperation in fisheries, climate change adaptation, renewable energy expansion, and increased access to education and scholarship opportunities.
Both sides expressed enthusiasm for exploring new sectors for collaboration while reaffirming their commitment to a partnership established on July 26, 1965, when diplomatic relations were first formalized. As the Maldives faces pressing challenges like climate change and sustainable development, these engagements signal a renewed commitment to international cooperation.
The discussions in London reflect a shared vision for addressing global issues while strengthening the historic ties that have bound the Maldives and the United Kingdom for six decades.
